Where Corporate and Wellness Unite!

September 15, 2015September 20, 2015

Stretching vs Foam Rolling – Written By Vanessa Ragains

Stretching vs Foam Rolling

For our second topic this week, we are defining the difference between Stretching and Foam Rolling. As you read on, think of these topics as self-maintenance tools for you to utilize in your day. After we define these tools, I have shared examples of when to use these tools, and video demos to use as your reference.

First, I am a huge fan of Foam rolling. Why? If I have a crazy schedule full of massage clients I am able to come home, grab my roller, and reverse some of the imbalances that have occurred during a day. Stretching is amazing when you need to create flexibility in your muscle tissue. Did you know that your muscle tissue actually shortens?

STRETCHING

Stretching Defined: To straighten or extend one’s body or a part of one’s body to its full length, typically so as to tighten one’s muscles or in order to reach something.

My goal for this post is to encourage you to stretch and use a foam roller consistency on a regular basis. It is very important to use both techniques to reduce the risk of injury, pain, and muscle imbalance. These are all very common characteristics for folks who work out regularly but do not make the time to stretch and foam roll. If you do not stretch your muscles will continue to shorten and when pushed to their limit, may tear. This will cause you pain along with being frustrated with the fact that you cannot do your workout due to being injured. I like to think of stretching and foam rolling as a part of my workout routines, not separate. Use the videos as tools to support you in your new habit of daily stretching and foam rolling.

I LOVE YOUR QUESTIONS!! Please feel free to ask me a question or comment about what you read today. Looking forward to hearing from radical Folks like yourself!